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How to Pay for a Smart Deadbolt

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How to Pay for a Smart Deadbolt

Upgrade your home security for about $14 a month using a 0% interest window during holiday sales.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $250 before anything else
Across the 0% window $13.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $250 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Getting a smart deadbolt means you stop fumbling for keys when your hands are full of groceries. You can give guests their own codes and check if the door is locked from your phone while you are at work. It takes about 30 minutes to swap out the old hardware if the holes already line up, making it one of the easiest ways to modernize your entry.

Buy during Black Friday or end-of-year sales to get the best price on hardware. If you are not handy, get at least two quotes from local handymen to see who has the best flat rate for a quick install. You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi) to stretch the cost out over time.

The 0% rate is a deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance after 18 months, the standard interest rate will apply to whatever is left, which makes your cheap upgrade much more expensive in the long run.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your lock

    Look for models that work with your existing smart home hub. Check if you need a specific finish like matte black or brushed nickel to match your current door handle so it does not look like an afterthought.

  2. 02

    Wait for the holidays

    Major retailers usually drop prices on home tech by 20% or more in late November. Set a price alert now so you know when the hardware hits that $250 mark or lower.

  3. 03

    Line up a pro

    If you do not want to do it yourself, find a local pro. Ask for a quick quote for a simple deadbolt replacement to avoid getting overcharged for a full security consult.

  4. 04

    Use the intro window

    Put the purchase on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi). It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, which gives you plenty of time to pay it off.

  5. 05

    Set the auto-pay

    Divide the total cost by the length of the intro period to keep your monthly cost low. Paying $13.89 a month covers the $250 cost before any interest kicks in.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is a smart lock less secure than a regular one?

Most use the same physical deadbolt technology as traditional locks. The main risk is digital, so use a strong password for the app and change codes if you give them to contractors.

Do I need a bridge or hub?

Some locks connect directly to your Wi-Fi, while others need a small bridge plugged into an outlet nearby. Check the box to see if you need extra gear to control it from your phone.

What happens if the battery dies?

Most models have a backup physical key slot or a spot to touch a 9V battery to the outside to give it a temporary jump. You will not be locked out forever.

Can I install this on a rental?

It depends on your lease, but many landlords are fine with it if you give them a code and keep the old lock. Just swap the original back in before you move out to get your deposit back.